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Peru

Why 2016 is THE Year to Travel to Peru

Can you hear the Andes calling? Are you longing to hike into Machu Picchu? Do the ancient secrets of the Inca whisper to you? Me too. The good news is that Peru is listed as one of the Top 10 Value Destinations for European Travelers in 2016. The strong currency makes it a great year to go.

Canadian travelers, Australian adventurers and those with the ultra-strong US currency in their wallets will also find Peru a great value in 2016.

Looking for Reasons to Visit Peru?

If you’re in to adventure then you’ll want to check out Peru’s Hidden Adventure Tourism Gems.

And, of course, no trip to Peru is complete without a visit to Machu Picchu. Here’s the Step by Step Guide.

Peru is a great destination for travelers of all ages. If you happen to be a little older than 25, with boots & a backpack, here are Nine Reasons Why You Should go to Peru as a Senior.

Moth larvae, pig hearts, cow nostrils, coca leaves and guinea pig… have you tried them? There are some Exciting Edibles in South America.

Sand surfing in Peru. I want to do this when I go back!

Peru is more than the high Andes, it’s also home to the headwaters of the mighty Amazon. Check out the rainforest, take a river boat adventure and maybe even go Gator Huntin’ in the Amazon!

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Peru travel guide

What to Eat in Peru: Famous Peruvian Foods

Peru has exploded onto the scene as the gastronomic capital of South America. Famous chefs and 5 star restaurants in Lima have certainly lent a hand to bringing this diverse cuisine to light, and the best part of enjoying a meal in Peru is you’re sure to never eat the same thing twice. Peruvians highly treasure the pachamama (mother earth), and they devote special meals to her and give thanks for the blessings and fertile land she’s bestowed upon them. And what a fertile land it is.

From the Pacific coasts to the highlands of the Andes, Peru has the opportunity to shine through its array of flavorful dishes and insane amount of produce available. The variety of natural resources and the cultural mixture of nationalities that have inspired it’s cuisine allow Peru to showcase everything from wild fish directly from the heart of the Amazon to the down to earth eateries serving up Chifa, the Peruvian-Chinese fusion cuisine that some would argue is better than if it came from China itself.

Every region in Peru has its distinctive meals- the coastal dishes of the Pacific burst with heat from Peru’s famous aji (chili) in its ceviche, which is a seafood lover’s dream dish. The central coast including Lima has some impressive restaurants and more impressive street stalls to choose your meals from. The food in the Andes or the Amazon won’t be the same eaten anywhere else in Peru. Head to the central Peruvian Andes to witness a Pachamanca, a traditional dish with hot stones heated and piled around the whole meal which is cooked entirely on the ground. This is the beauty of the Peruvian cuisine, its rich diversity.

The list of popular Peruvian dishes is quite endless but it’s been narrowed down to these, make sure you try them on your next visit.

Papa a la Huancaina


A typical Creole dish, this is a starter course made with boiled potato. The potato is cut into wheels and is accompanied by a cream sauce (Huancaina) made with a base of artisanal cheese called queso fresco, yellow aji (pepper) which is native to this region, and oil. It’s usually served on a plate of lettuce with boiled egg and a few olives. A variation to this sauce is to add peanuts, which changes the flavor slightly-this is called Ocopa sauce.

Where to find the best Huancaina sauce? I have noticed that this dish is either best enjoyed cooked with locals at a private residence or enjoyed at a proper restaurant. It is not a typical street dish and sometimes can be hard to find, surprisingly.

Chifa


The strong Chinese influence in Peruvian cuisine is due to the arrival of the Chinese laborers in the 1850’s who came to work in the silver mines and in guano pits , sugar, and cotton fields, and whom later stayed, infusing a style of cuisine that is still found all over the country and called Chifa. There are dozens of Chifa restaurants with a variety of fusion dishes, a particular favorite being the sweet and sour chicken, always made with fresh pineapple and accompanied with white rice.

Where to find the best Chifa? Lima has a great Chinatown district where you can choose from any number of Chifa eateries. Opinions vary, but decent Chifa spots can be found in Cusco with a personal favorite Chifa location being in Puno.

Antichuchos


Another plate eaten as an appetizer, antichuchos are popular and inexpensive. Composed of small pieces of grilled skewered meat and marinated in vinegar, salt, pepper, cumin, garlic and onions, antichuchos go all the way back to the 16th century in origin in Peru. While this dish can be made with any type of meat, the most popular parts are the beef heart. Look for any street cart to be grilling this dish up along with a side of boiled potato.

Where to find the best Antichuchos? In Lima it’s best to search for a populated street cart or a few restaurants in the Barranco district serve up tasty sticks of antichuchos.

Cau Cau


Main course served with rice. Created with potatoes and Mondongo (tripe) stew and sometimes accompanied with peas and carrots. This Creole dish is seasoned with onions, garlic, yellow aji (long pepper), and a pinch of turmeric and garnished with mint.

Where to find the best Cau Cau? Scope out back end Creole restaurants for the best home made Cau Cau. Ask the locals where they’re eating it lately since good locations can change from year to year.

Tacu Tacu


Originally prepared as a leftover dish by Afro-Peruvians, this filling main dish is simple and easy, with a base of rice and beans fried together and usually topped with a thin steak and a fried egg, although it can also come with another side of fried sweet plantains (banana).

Where to find the best Tacu Tacu? Lima and the surrounding areas as well as many cevicherias, since this dish is sometimes served with seafood when adding the rice and beans.

Ceviche


The most famous of Peruvian dishes, this commonly known dish is usually raw fish chopped and marinated with limes, onions, tomatoes, and served cold with sweet potato or corn. Another variation is created with the black clam from the north and gets its color from the tint of the clam. Anytime you’re craving ceviche, head to a coastal town like Trujillo or even Mollendo.

Where to find the best Ceviche? Any coastal town such as Trujillo, Mollendo, Chiclayo, or Piura. If you can see the ocean from where you’re at, chances are you’ll be getting the freshest seafood for your ceviche dish.

Rocoto Relleno


A spicy appetizer dish with Rocoto being the type of pepper and relleno meaning stuffed. The spicy pepper is hollowed out and stuffed with meat, pork, or seafood, and is usually finished off in the oven. The rocoto pepper is one of the spiciest in Peru so it will definitely leave your lips tingling!

Where to find the best Rocoto Relleno? Sources say the place to go for this spicy pepper dish is Arequipa.

Pan con chicharron


This sandwich is delicious on freshly baked bread. Fried thin chunks of pork topped with slices of sweet potato and red onion typically served with spicy sauces made with aji. I’ve had the best pan con chicharrones in Lima.

Where to find the best Pan con chicharron? Several spots in Lima serve this dish; look for any restaurant or smaller establishment that has pork visibly cooking. If it’s full of Peruvians, you’ve come to a good spot. In Lima, the Parque Kennedy has a sandwich joint that’s been around for years, and it’s always full.

Humitas


A cousin of the tamale, this is made with a white corn base. Peruvian women will climb on buses selling these treats early morning, asking if you’d like salty or sweet- as the two versions differ. One is corn with a pork filling and the sweet version is filled with raisins or cheese. Super cheap, buy 2 or 3 of each and you’ve got a great snack.

Where to find the best Humitas? The best Humitas will be the ones you’ll get from any street vendor first thing in the morning. As long as the basket is steaming you’ll know they’re nice and hot, which is the best way to enjoy them.

Lomo Saltado


For most visitors to Peru, this might very well be their first dish. As well as being the most well known besides ceviche, this dish is served just about everywhere! A stir fry, this meat dish is created with spices and onions, tomatoes, soy sauce and vinegar and comes served with both white rice and French fries.

Where to find the best Lomo Saltado? Since this is one of the most popular dishes from Peru, it’s likely on any restaurant menu. Smaller restaurants also serve this dish, in particular in Cusco I know it’s on a few breakfast menus as well. Affordable and filling, best enjoyed with a cup of coca tea in the morning or a Cusquena beer in the evening.

Cuy


Fried guinea pig might not be for everyone, but a dish of guinea pig can be served with meat only or you can also order it whole, and grab the little leg to get a good bite. Make sure the skin is nice and crispy for the best flavor.

Where to find the best Cuy? Since cuy has such a distinct taste, you should ask around for a locals’ opinion in whichever town you’re in to see who is making the best Cuy. Tourist restaurants always have it on the menu, particularly in the bigger cities of Arequipa, Cusco, or Lima.

Masamorra Morada


A corn pudding purple in color and best tasted at the house of a local, this after dinner treat is prepared first with the base of purple corn boiled with water (chicha), when this is ready you can add dehydrated ground potato and chunks of pineapple, raisins, and a stick of cinnamon or cloves.

Where to find the best Masamorra Morada? Again this is one of those dishes that you’d be lucky to enjoy with your new Peruvian friends with grandma cooking it up right, since this is where you’ll find the best tasting puddings. It is a typical Limenan dessert so a good place to enjoy it might be in Lima.

Arroz con leche


Tradional rice pudding, easy to make and can be eaten cold or hot. Boiled cooked rice gets cinnamon, cloves, and sweetened condensed milk mixed in with raisins for a sweet treat. This dessert can also be topped with orange shavings.

Where to find the best Arroz con leche? I hate to give Lima all the credit, because I’m sure you can find it in any town with a bit of searching. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, chances are you’ll find a place to satisfy it wherever you may be.

author: Mica Ivealis

photo credits: Papa a la Huancaina by morrissey, Chifa by Pablo Matamoros, Antichuchos by HugoMon, Cau Cau by Xauxa, Tacu Tacu by La Cocina de Bender, Rocoto Relleno by James Ulysses, Humitas by Daniel Norero, Lomo Saltado by Dtarazona, Cuy by rebeccaypedro, Masamorra Morada by Dtarazona – remainder by the author (and may not be used without permission)

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Peru travel guide

Itinerary for 10 Days in Peru

The Incas could never have predicted that hundreds of years after their disappearance Peru would become one of the most visited destinations in all of South America. The diversity of activities you can experience in Peru will leave you more breathless than the altitude change you’ll feel upon arriving to its vibrant city of Cuzco, which was once the capital of the Inca Empire. From desert sands and miles of coastline beaches, to lush green virgin rainforest, and the crowning glory of Machu Picchu, Peru has something for everyone to experience.

You could probably stay in Peru for 6 months and tackle all of the hiking trails, live among the local tribes in its Amazonian rainforests, or surf and eat your way slowly from north to south and back again. If you’ve only got 10 days to explore, this itinerary can help you decide what to see on this trip, and although many variations are possible, I’ve picked locations that can best help you get an understanding of the culture and history.

1 day in Lima

Admire Lima’s historic center, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can stroll through the Plaza Mayor, which is surrounded by 5 important buildings: the Government Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop´s Palace, the Municipal Palace, and the Palace of Lima. Lima is the 5th largest city in Latin America, and besides being Peru’s capital, some of its buildings from the colonial era still stand, a feature of these buildings being their prominent balconies, which adorn the lively and bustling area.

Walk over to the San Francisco Monastery, famous for its catacombs where over 250,000 bones rest. Also worth a visit is the Museo Banco Central de Reserva del Peru, housed inside a bank. Showcasing fascinating Folk Art, a separate Art Gallery, and inside its vault- a brilliant gold exhibition making for a dramatic display.

1 day Paracas/Nazca

Only 3 hours by bus from Lima, Paracas is easily reachable by early morning. Kick off from the nearby Pisco airport on a flight over the Nazca lines, which were built between 500 BC and 500 AD. The Nazca Lines are another World Heritage Site and have been studied for half a century, and yet they continue to baffle researchers. Many scientists believe the lines had some astronomical function for the Nazca civilization. During the sometimes stomach-churning flight, which takes about an hour, you can see famous glyphs such as the condor, the hummingbird, and the monkey etched into the mountainside. Be sure to bring your camera and have only a light snack beforehand!

2 days Puno

The capital of folkloric Peru, Puno lies at the foot of the world’s largest commercially navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. This lake, 12, 500 feet high in the Andes, is home to a population of people who live on some of the artificial islands, created by floating reeds. The exact number of islands changes as they are made and remade by hand and, after a period of time, abandoned. Each island is inhabited by islanders who either work in Puno (generally those who live on the islands close to the shore), live in relative isolation (those far from the shoreline), or who use tourism as their main source of income and allow travelers to visit during the day or spend the night.

Most of them speak Quechua, a language native to Peru and neighboring Bolivia. Amantani & Taquile islands are the most popular to visit, where you’ll get a chance to learn about the local customs and take a ride on a reed boat. The handcrafts of Puno are some the best in Peru and the sunsets on the lake are spectacular. If you’re lucky you can dress up in typical clothing, which is something you’ll get to do when you spend the night on Amantani Island and experience the hospitality of a local family who will host you, give you a home cooked dinner and possibly a dance show in the evening, lit up by candles.

2 days Cusco

Cusco is a gem, a gorgeous city flanked on all sides by mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. Walking among its ancient cobblestone streets you might think you’ve stepped back in time. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, its population has exploded and it’s now the most visited city in Peru. Tourists flock here by the millions, and it’s easy to see why. Dozens of ruins are spread out among the hillsides, most notably the ones to visit are Saqsayhuaman (which can be reached by a short hike-mostly uphill from the city center), Tipon (with its water terraces), and Moray (with its unusual agricultural terraces).

Scope out the local art scene in the barrio (neighborhood) of San Blas, where the number of art galleries outnumber its coffee shops. Sit on a bench in the famous Plaza de Armas and breathe it all in, which might be a bit difficult while you get used to the high altitude. Have a cup of coca tea, which works wonders for altitude sickness at any of the 2nd floor restaurants in the Plaza de Armas for a better view, especially at night. When you’ve recovered, walk along the Avenida el Sol to the temple of Qorikancha and its Church and Convent of Santo Domingo. On your second night, gear up for your train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

1 day Aguas Calientes

Wake up at 3am for breakfast before you join other travelers making the line for the bus (first one up leaves at 5am) that will take you up to visit the stunning ruins of Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes or the more adventurous can walk up the winding road till the top. Take the whole day to wander around the exquisite ruins, saying hello to the Llamas that wander freely amongst the grounds, eat some lunch on a grassy viewpoint, or make the early morning line to climb Huayna Picchu (if you don’t easily get vertigo!)

You could spend days properly exploring so make sure you get there early enough to be on one of the first buses going up the mountainside. Witnessing Machu Picchu at sunrise is an experience you’ll never forget.

2 days Puerto Maldonado

The southeastern city of Puerto Maldonado is a perfect beginning to a trek deep in the Amazon jungle. The protected nature reserve of Tambopata Reserve is a unique place to spend a few days unwinding and observing one of the greatest eco systems on the planet. The diversity and amount of species here is mind blowing: thousands of butterflies, hundreds of birds and amphibians, reptiles, mammals and so on. Hopefully you’ve charged your camera batteries so you can get out and photograph the beauty that lives here. Protected reserves like this are rare because of logging/deforestation in the surrounding areas so you have a better chance of seeing species that might not be found anywhere else in the rainforest. Head there between June and October and you can stay overnight in a primitive campsite, or splurge in more luxurious jungle surroundings.

1 day in Pisco

After the last 9 days of adventure, take a little day trip to the city of Pisco and discover more about the brandy of the same name which is produced in this particular region of Peru. Watch a local guide show you exactly how the Pisco is produced at a local farm and cap off your incredible time in Peru by having a tasting of all the different types of Pisco.

author: Mica Ivealis

photos by the author (and may not be used without permission) – except the photo of the Cathedral and Archbishop’s Palace in Lima, by David Baggins, and the Nazca Lines, by Bruno Girin

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Peru travel guide

Things to do in Lima

With nearly 9 million inhabitants, Lima is a combination of many cities, mixing the high end luxurious neighborhoods with the less developed outskirts. In between, one can find the historical district with its many places to visit. Lima is known as the best city in Peru to try the local cuisine.

Here are some things to do while you visit Lima.

Soak up the atmosphere in Plaza de Armas (or Plaza Mayor)

It is the main square in Lima and is bordered by Cathedral of Lima, the Municipal Palace (City Hall) and private office buildings. You can visit the Cathedral and the museum inside. Admission to the Cathedral is US$1.50 for an adult.

Visit an ancient temple: Huaca Pucllana

If you don’t have time to travel to Machu Picchu, then you’ll be pleased to discover that Lima has its fare share of ancient ruins. This one is right in the Miraflores District and has been restored. The temple was built around 500 AD. Admission is US$2.50 for adults and the ruins can be visited from Wednesday to Monday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A quite different museum: Larco Museum

It is housed in a former mansion built on the site of a former pre-Colombian Temple. But what sets this museum apart are the following interesting things: visitors are allowed into the store rooms where they can see items which are not on display; and there is a special room dedicated to the erotic archaeological treasures (a collection of ceramic pots portraying sexual acts). The admission is US$10 and visitors can also see ceramic, textile and precious metal artifacts within the museum.

Learn about the Peruvian history at the Aliaga House

It is as old as Lima itself and comprises a collection of Peruvian art and artifacts. You can see here the sword of Jerónimo de Aliaga used in the conquest of Peru. Tours cost US$40 per person and take about an hour.

Take the catacombs tour at the Church of San Francisco

It’s impossible not to walk for several blocks in Lima and not stumble upon yet another Catholic Church. You’ll recognize this one by the swarms of pigeons residing on the patio. It was built in the late 1600s in baroque style. You can visit the adjoining monastery which comprises a collection of ancient religious texts. The catacombs, however, are the attraction for the visitors. They comprise about 75,000 bodies, many of them exposed. Entrance fee is US$2 and the catacombs tour lasts about 45 min.

Must try food: Ceviche

It is the national Peruvian food and most likely it will appeal to those who enjoy seafood. Ceviche is made with raw fish, lime or lemon juice, onions, chili peppers and sometimes herbs.

Take a scenic train ride

If you happen to visit Lima between April and November, why not consider a scenic train ride all the way to the Central highlands. The Lima to Huancayo train route is magnificent but, unfortunately, not very reliable (it shut down some years ago but now is running again).

>>read more about Train Travel in Peru

The Magic Water Circuit

More than 12 fountains “dance” to music and light. The ticket costs US$1.50 and the show starts at 4 p.m.

Surf

The waves around Lima are safe for any surfer, but places such as Pico Alto and Cerro Azul are recommended for the advanced surfers.

Photo credits: Plaza de Armas , Huaca Pucllana , Larco Museum , Aliaga House , Church of San Francisco , Ceviche , Train trip , Surfing

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Peru

American Embassy in Lima, Peru

Generally speaking, when an American citizen needs the help of the American Embassy, something went terribly wrong. The American Embassy in Lima is meant to offer assistance to the US citizens living in Peru and those traveling to Peru.

The American citizens traveling to Peru are urged to register with the Embassy, so that help is offered better in case of an emergency.

The emergency services offered by the American Embassy include:

  • assistance to the American citizen is arrested in Peru
  • assistance to the American citizens victims of crimes in Peru (including theft and robbery)
  • assistance if an American citizen dies in Peru
  • access to list of lawyers and doctors who speak English in Peru
  • replacement of lost or stolen passport (without appointment during regular office hours)

Emergency contact number

If you are an American citizen with an afterhours emergency, you can call the hotline at: (51-1) 618-2000 (24 h a day).

American Embassy in Lima

Address: Avenida Encalada, Cuadra 17, Monterrico – Surco, Lima, Peru

View US Embassy in a larger map

Phone: 618-2000
Fax: 618-2724
Website

Working hours: Mon to Fri: 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Cusco Consular Agency Contact

Address: Avenida Pardo 845, Cusco
Phone: [011] (51) (084) 231-474
Mobile: [011] (51) (084) 984-621-369
Fax: [011] (51) (084) 245-102

The consular agent is available 24 h for emergency assistance in Cusco and the surrounding area. The consular agent can accept passport applications.

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Accommodation Peru travel guide

Hotels near Machu Picchu

When planning to visit Machu Picchu , first you need to get to Cusco , which is the gateway into the Inca historical site. If you plan to take the Inca Trail, you’ll leave from Cusco (after getting used to the high altitude for 3 to 7 days). Another option is to stay in Aguas Calientes , which is the city with where the trains from Cusco stop and from where you can either take a bus or hike to Machu Picchu. There is also the possibility to stay in Machu Picchu Town, but the prices are typically higher than if you were to stay further away.

>>book a cheap hotel in Cusco or look for cheap hostels in Cusco

Should you decide to stay in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town, here are some good options for hotels near Machu Picchu:

Budget Hotels

Hostal Varayoc

The hostel is located less than 100 m from the railway station in downtown Aguas Calientes. All rooms have private bathrooms, TV and there is free internet access available. Laundry service is available. The Continental breakfast is included in the room price. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$35 per night in a double or twin room.

Mid-Range Hotels

Terrazas Del Inca Bed And Breakfast

This hotel is located in downtown Machu Picchu, surrounded by the mountains. It is just 30 min bus drive from the Inca site and has lovely views of the river. The hot springs are just 5 min walk away and the waterfalls are within 45 min hike. All rooms have en suite bathrooms and TV. The on site restaurant offers panoramic views of the area. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$55 per night in a double room, breakfast included.

Machu Picchu Green Nature

The hostel offers free airport pick-up and free breakfast. All rooms have private bathrooms and some have mountain view. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$58 per night in a budget double room with mountain view.

Luxury Hotels

Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel

The 5 star hotel is located just 20 min from Machu Picchu and offers luxurious rooms with cable TV. There are a restaurant and a bar on site. And the guests can relax at the spa. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$548 per night in a superior double or twin room, breakfast included.

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

It offers direct views of the Huayna Picchu Mountain. The 5-star hotel also offers free wi-fi and iPod docking stations. Trips to the site can be arranged at the hotel. All rooms have cable TV and private bathrooms. The on site restaurant offers panoramic views of the jungle. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$925 per night in a standard double or twin room, full board.

Photo credit

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Accommodation Peru travel guide

Cheap Hotels in Arequipa

Arequipa is a city located in the Southern Coastal Peru, 2,380 m above the sea level. It is surrounded by three impressive volcanoes out of which one – El Misti- can be easily hiked year-round. It is the second most popular city among travelers (after Cusco ).

Together with Puno, Cusco and Naza, it is part of the “Southern Peru Tourist Corridor”, but in contrast to the other cities, Arequipa is a good example of the Spanish and mestizo culture developed in Peru and is not home to any Inca ruins. Spanish colonial architecture can be found all over the city and the churches are a delight to visit.

While Arequipa is not located at such a high altitude as Cusco, you’ll still need to adjust to it, especially if you plan to do any hiking. While El Misti is an easy hike, it is done in two days (and one night).

>>read more about Getting from Lima to Arequipa

Accommodation in Arequipa is plentiful and you can choose between cheap hotels, mid-range hotels and high end hotels, depending on your budget and preferences.

Here are some cheap hotels in Arequipa to consider for your stay:

Inti Punku Lodge

The hotel is located close to the main square and offer free wi-fi and all rooms have private bathrooms. The breakfast is included in the room price. The kitchen can be used by the guests and comprises coffee making facilities. The tour desk offers the possibility to book trips in the area. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$24 per night in a double or twin room.

Dreams Hotel Boutique

It is located in the Vallecito neighborhood and offer free wi-fi. Spa facilities are also available at the hotel. The buffet breakfast is included in the room price. Free shuttle service to/from the airport is available. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$79 per night in a standard double or twin room.

Queen’s Villa Hotel

The hotel is located in a former colonial mansion and is close to the main square. It has a garden, a pool, offers free wi-fi and you can book trips at the tour desk. The terrace offers panoramic views of the city and the volcanoes. The American breakfast is included in the room price. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$93 per night in a business double or twin room. The junior suite (also sleeps two) starts at US$127 per night.

Alwa Hotel Boutique

The hotel offers a terrace with panoramic views of the city and has 9 rooms with AC and LCD TV. The restaurant on site serves Peruvian cuisine and the buffet breakfast is included in the room price. The tour desk on site offers the possibility to book trips to the near-by volcanoes and Machu Picchu. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$72 per night in a double room.

Hotel La Gruta

It is located in a residential area , about 1 km from the historic center. All room have TV and free internet. The on site restaurant offers Peruvian cuisine and the Continental breakfast is included in the room price. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$65 per night in a double room.

Arequipa Inn

The inn is located 15 min drive from the airport and offer free shuttle to/from the airport. All rooms have free wi-fi, LCD TV and private bathrooms. The continental breakfast is included in the room price. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$42 per night in a double room.

Search this map to find cheap hotels in Arequipa, or find even more hotel options by searching with the widget above.

Photo credit

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Accommodation Peru travel guide

Cheap Hostels in Cusco

Cusco (also “Cuzco”) is the most visited city in Peru thanks to being close to Machu Picchu (and other Inca sites, too) and on the railway which offers access to Lake Titicaca. But the city is also a delight to visit. The capital of the Inca Empire has a lot of colonial architecture to be proud with and is surrounded by Inca ruins.

Since the city is located 3,400 m above the sea level , altitude sickness is a problem to consider. So make sure to adjust to the altitude before you set out to explore the near-by areas. And what best way to get accustomed to the high altitude than to visit the city? For that, you’ll need a place to stay and the cheap hostels in Cusco are an excellent choice. It is always a good idea to book the hostel bed (room) in advance.

Many travelers don’t need more than a private room with en suite bathroom and free wi-fi…throw in a complimentary breakfast and we usually fall in love with the place, especially since hostels tend to be located close to the sites or right in the city center. You get a chance to socialize, too, thanks to the common lounge areas.

Read more about:
>>Getting from Lima to Cusco
>>Getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu


With that in mind, here are some cheap hostels in Cusco to consider for your trip:

El Tuco Hostel

It is located in the history district and offers rooms with private bathrooms. The hostel offers twin, double, single and triple rooms. There are a guest kitchen , laundry facilities and luggage storage available. Breakfast is included in the room price. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$27 per night in a private double room.

Hostal El Triunfo

In 2010, the hostel ranked top 3 for ‘Best Location’ in South America. It is located in the city center , behind the Cathedral. All rooms have private bathrooms , TV and some have balconies. Breakfast is included in the room price. The hostel offers private 2,3 and 4 beds rooms. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$45 pr night in a private double room.

Hostal Mallqui

It is located in the city center and you can use their tour desk to book trips to the sites located in the area. All rooms have en suite bathrooms and cable TV. There’s free wi-fi and the American breakfast is included in the room price. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$50 per night in a standard or double room.

Hostal Qorichaska

The hostel is located in a refurbished colonial house and offers free wi-fi and private bathrooms. It is located close to the bus station, as well. The common kitchen can be used by the guests. American breakfast is included in the room price. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$28 per night in a double or twin room.

Hostal Girasoles Cusco

The hostel , located close to Plaza de Armas, offers private rooms with en suite bathrooms, with free wi-fi and a sun terrace with lovely views of the city. The tour desk can be used to book trips to the near-by ruins. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$35 per night in a double or twin room.

Search this map to find cheap hostels in Cusco, or find even more hostel options by searching with the widget above.

Photo credit

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Accommodation Peru travel guide

Cheap Hotels in Cusco

Cusco (also “Cuzco”) is located in the Southern Sierras and is the most popular travel destination in Peru. It is the gateway to Machu Picchu , Lake Titicaca and the city itself offers plenty of places to visit , which are filled with history. The capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a city you need to get used to…literally. The high altitude puts strain on your body so make sure to adapt to the new conditions before you set off exploring the sites.

But while you adapt, you can visit the city, taste the local cuisine and get to know the culture. For that, you need a place to stay. Thankfully, cheap hotels in Cusco are easy to find. You just have to do your homework (research) before you leave for Cusco.

Read more about:
>>Getting from Lima to Cusco
>>Getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu

Here are some places to consider for your stay in Cusco:

Inkas Inn Cusco

It is located just 400 km from Plaza de Armas. All rooms have free wi-fi , cable TV and private bathrooms. The continental breakfast is included in the room price. The hotel offers free parking and laundry facilities. They can arrange tours to the sites located in the area including Machu Picchu. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$32 per night for a twin or double room.

Royal Inn Cusco

This hotel is located in a quiet area of the city and offers free wi-fi , cable TV, private bathrooms and on-site parking. The continental breakfast is included in the room price. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$42 per night for a double or twin room.

Hotel Royal Qosqo

The hotel is located in the city center and features a spa and a café. The Huaca Hanan Huri Pacha ruins are just 30 min away (walking). All rooms have private bathrooms, TV and telephone. There’s free wi-fi in the public areas and the continental breakfast is included in the room price. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$45 per night for a double or twin room.

Awki´s Dream Hotel

The 3-star hotel is located 3 blocks away from Plaza de Armas. The rooms have free wi-fi, minibar, work desk, laptop safe and LCD TV. The buffet breakfast is included in the room price. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$45 per night for a double room.

Golden Inca Hotel

It is located about 2 km from Plaza de Armas and 3.5 km from the train station. All rooms have free wi-fi and private bathrooms. The buffet breakfast is included in the room price. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$45 per night for a double or twin room.

Search this map to find cheap hotels in Cusco, or find even more hotel options by searching with the widget above.

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Accommodation Peru travel guide

Cheap Hostels in Lima

Lima might not be the most famous travel destination in Peru, but it has its fair share of places to visit and things to do. From the colonial architecture , to the wonderful churches and exquisite cuisine, Lima is a good option for getting used to Peru before traveling to other parts of the country. Plus, if you fly from abroad, this is where you’ll land , so why not take some time to explore the city as well?

When it comes to finding a place to stay, there are some things to take into account. The most important is the location. Thankfully, hostels – although the cheap option of accommodation – are usually located either close to the sites or in excellent areas. Sure, if the District you plan to stay in is quite expensive – for example: Barranco, San Isidro or Miraflores – the hostel bed will be a bit more expensive than if you were to stay in the City Center (Old Town), but overall you’ll still get a good bargain. Also, consider the facilities you really need. A private room with en suite bathroom and free wi-fi are enough for many independent travelers.

With that in mind, here are some cheap hostels in Lima to consider for you vacation:

Hitchhikers B&B Backpackers Hostel

This hostel in located in Miraflores District , close to the ocean, parks, bus station and more. The dorms have lockers and there are a safe box and luggage storage available. The hostel offers a computer, wi-fi, kitchen, BBQ area, bicycle rental , book exchange and TV (among other facilities). There are both private rooms and dorms available. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$28 per night in a deluxe private double room and US$11.20 per night per bed in a 6-debs dorm or 8-beds dorm.

Link Hostel

This hostel is located near Av. Arequipa in Miraflores, in a refurbished colonial house. It is close to the bus station, market and park. The hostel offers a bar, a kitchen and lounge area. There are both private rooms and dorms available. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$9 per night per bed in a 4-beds dorm and US$11 per night per bed in a 6-beds or 8-beds dorm.

Barranco’s Backpackers

The hostel is located in the Colonial / Bohemian neighborhood and offers views of the ocean. It is close to the bars, restaurants and many other places to have fun. All rooms have bathroom en-suite, breakfast is included in the bed price, there’s free wi-fi and book exchange. The hostel also offers a kitchen and laundry facilities. In March 2012, expect to pay from US$35 per night for a double room with ocean views and TV and from US$9 per bed per night in a 6-beds dorm.

Search this map to find cheap hostels in Lima, or find even more hostel options by searching with the widget above.